Quick & Easy Instant Pot Red Beans and Rice

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Introduction

Red Beans and Rice is a classic Southern dish that traditionally takes hours to cook. But with the Instant Pot, you can enjoy all the deep, savory flavors in a fraction of the time. This recipe includes tender red beans cooked with smoked sausage, flavorful spices, and served over fluffy rice, making it the perfect meal for busy nights. Let’s dive into this deliciously simple and budget-friendly dish!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Fast and Flavorful: The Instant Pot cuts down cooking time dramatically, while still delivering all the classic flavors.
Affordable Ingredients: Red beans and rice are both budget-friendly and filling, making this a great meal for families.
Packed with Protein: With beans and sausage, this dish is hearty and packed with protein.

Ingredients

For the Red Beans:

1 lb dried red beans (soaked overnight, or use the “Quick Soak” method)
1 tbsp olive oil
1 large onion (chopped)
1 green bell pepper (chopped)
3 celery stalks (chopped)
3 cloves garlic (minced)
1 lb smoked sausage (sliced, Andouille or other smoked sausage)
4 cups chicken broth
2 bay leaves
1 tsp dried thyme
1 tsp paprika
1 tsp dried oregano
1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Rice:

1 cup long-grain white rice
2 cups water
1 tbsp butter
Salt to taste

For Serving:

Chopped green onions for garnish
Fresh parsley (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Sauté the Sausage and Vegetables

Turn the Instant Pot on to Sauté mode and add the olive oil.
Add the smoked sausage slices and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove the sausage and set aside.
In the same pot, add the onion, green bell pepper, celery, and garlic. Sauté for 3-5 minutes, until softened.

Step 2: Add Seasonings and Beans

Add the soaked red beans, chicken broth, bay leaves, thyme, paprika, oregano, cayenne, salt, and pepper. Stir well.

Step 3: Pressure Cook the Beans

Close the lid, set the valve to Sealing, and select Pressure Cook or Manual on High Pressure for 35 minutes.
Once the cooking time is done, allow the pressure to release naturally for 10-15 minutes, then perform a quick release for any remaining pressure.

Step 4: Cook the Rice Separately

While the beans are cooking, cook the rice on the stovetop. Bring 2 cups of water to a boil, add 1 cup of rice, butter, and salt, and reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 15 minutes or until the rice is tender.
Fluff the rice with a fork and set aside.

Step 5: Combine and Serve

Open the Instant Pot and remove the bay leaves. Stir the sausage back into the pot with the beans.
If you prefer a thicker consistency, use a potato masher to mash some of the beans until the mixture reaches your desired texture.
Serve the red beans over the rice, garnished with green onions and parsley if desired.

Tips for Success

Soaking Beans: Soaking the beans overnight helps them cook faster and more evenly in the Instant Pot.
Adjusting Heat: For a milder dish, reduce the cayenne pepper. For more spice, add extra cayenne or hot sauce when serving.
Vegetarian Option: Skip the sausage and use vegetable broth for a vegetarian version of this dish.

Recipe Variations

Add Smoked Ham: Replace or add to the sausage with smoked ham for even more flavor.
Brown Rice Option: Use brown rice instead of white for added fiber; adjust cooking time if cooking the rice in the Instant Pot.

FAQs

Q: Can I use canned beans instead of dried beans?
A: Yes, but reduce the pressure cooking time to 15 minutes since canned beans are already softened.

Q: How long will leftovers last?
A: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave.

Conclusion

Instant Pot Red Beans and Rice is a quick, comforting dish that’s perfect for busy days. Full of flavor and simple to make, this recipe brings the taste of Louisiana right to your kitchen. Try it out, and don’t forget to explore more Instant Pot recipes on Duorecipes.com!

Enjoy your meal, and let us know how this classic Southern dish turns out in the comments below!